The 2025 NFL draft commenced with great excitement, showcasing a diverse array of events in Round 1 that escalated rapidly. The Titans selected Cam Ward as anticipated, but the Jaguars unexpectedly traded up to the second pick to acquire receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter. The Giants opted for edge rusher Abdul Carter and subsequently moved up to secure quarterback Jaxson Dart, despite Shedeur Sanders still being available. After over twenty years of abstaining, the Packers finally selected a receiver in Round 1, choosing Matthew Golden. The Falcons addressed significant defensive needs by selecting two edge rushers, and notably, there were more guards chosen than quarterbacks!
To contextualize the selections, we must consider which teams emerged as the primary victors of the evening. I found numerous selections commendable, as front offices successfully acquired players at excellent values. However, as is customary, there were also some puzzling choices. To analyze the best and worst picks of the first round, I referenced my own Big Board rankings and prospect evaluations to identify which teams secured bargains and which ones may have overreached. Additionally, the most pressing needs of each roster and any trades related to the picks—both upward and downward—were crucial factors in this assessment.
We will reconvene for Rounds 2 and 3 on Friday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, and the ESPN App. I still have five players ranked in my top 25 available, so anticipate further impactful selections on Day 2. A top-five prospect in Sanders is likely to be chosen. I have compiled a list of the best available players at the end of this analysis, along with some preliminary thoughts for the second round. But first, let us review the highlights and low points of Round 1, beginning with the host city breaking a longstanding trend in the draft.
The 2025 NFL Draft commenced on Thursday evening in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where the Tennessee Titans chose Miami quarterback Cam Ward as the first overall pick. Although all 32 teams were set to make their first-round selections on Thursday, the New York Giants' ascent to the 25th pick to draft Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart resulted in the Houston Texans being excluded from the first round. Shortly thereafter, the Atlanta Falcons negotiated with the Los Angeles Rams to re-enter the first round and select Tennessee defensive end James Pearce Jr. We will monitor all 257 selections across Rounds 1-7, and you can also explore the top available draft prospects. The draft will proceed with Rounds 2-3 on Friday at 7 p.m. ET and will conclude with Rounds 4-7 on Saturday at noon ET. ESPN's team of reporters has provided advantages and disadvantages for each of the 32 players chosen in the first round on Thursday.